Procurement Manager

Procurement ManagerLocation: Chattanooga, TNJob Type: Full-Time, On-SitePay: $48.08-$57.69/hrJob DescriptionThe Procurement Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing and procurement strategies that support the operational, financial, and production objectives of the manufacturing facility. This position oversees supplier selection, contract negotiations, inventory planning, cost reduction initiatives, and procurement processes to ensure a reliable supply of materials, components, equipment, and services.The Procurement Manager partners closely with Production, Operations, Supply Chain, Engineering, Quality, Finance, and Logistics teams to optimize supplier performance, mitigate supply risks, and drive continuous improvement throughout the procurement function.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Sourcing and ProcurementDevelop and implement procurement strategies aligned with business and manufacturing objectives.Manage the sourcing, purchasing, and replenishment of raw materials, components, packaging, maintenance supplies, and capital equipment.Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery performance, and service capabilities.Lead competitive bidding, supplier selection, and contract negotiation processes.Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and supply chain risks to support strategic purchasing decisions.Develop contingency plans for critical suppliers and materials.Supplier Relationship ManagementEstablish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and strategic partners.Conduct supplier performance evaluations and business reviews.Drive supplier improvements related to cost, quality, delivery, and service performance.Resolve supplier-related issues involving pricing, shortages, quality concerns, and delivery delays.Collaborate with suppliers to identify innovation and continuous improvement opportunities.Ensure suppliers meet company quality, safety, ethical, and compliance requirements.Cost Management and Savings InitiativesLead cost reduction and supplier consolidation initiatives.Negotiate pricing, contracts, payment terms, and service agreements.Analyze spending trends and identify opportunities to improve procurement efficiency.Develop and monitor procurement budgets and savings targets.Track and report cost savings, cost avoidance, and procurement performance metrics.Support annual budgeting and forecasting activities.Inventory and Supply Chain ManagementCollaborate with operations, planning, and warehouse teams to ensure material availability.Balance inventory levels to support production while minimizing carrying costs.Monitor inventory trends and identify opportunities to reduce excess and obsolete inventory.Coordinate procurement activities to support production schedules and customer requirements.Assist in demand planning and forecasting processes.Mitigate supply chain disruptions through proactive planning and supplier management.Contract Management and ComplianceDraft, negotiate, and administer supplier contracts and agreements.Ensure compliance with company procurement policies and procedures.Manage procurement documentation, purchase orders, contracts, and supplier records.Ensure compliance with applicable legal, environmental, and regulatory requirements.Support internal and external audits related to procurement activities.Maintain ethical procurement practices consistent with company standards.Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Engineering on supplier qualification and new product introductions.Work with Quality Assurance to address supplier quality concerns and corrective actions.Collaborate with Finance to support budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting activities.Support Maintenance and Operations teams with sourcing of equipment, spare parts, and services.Participate in continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives.Leadership and Team DevelopmentManage and develop procurement, purchasing, and sourcing personnel.Establish performance goals and monitor team performance.Provide coaching, training, and professional development opportunities.Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Lead procurement projects and strategic initiatives.QualificationsEducationBachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field required.Experience5-10 years of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience.Minimum of 3 years of leadership or supervisory experience preferred.Experience in a manufacturing, industrial, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, or related production environment strongly preferred.Experience managing supplier relationships and negotiating contracts.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesStrong knowledge of procurement principles, sourcing strategies, and supplier management.Understanding of manufacturing operations, inventory control, and supply chain processes.Proven negotiation and contract management skills.Strong financial and analytical capabilities.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.Proficiency with ERP systems, procurement software, and Microsoft Office applications.Experience using data analytics to support business decisions.Preferred QualificationsCertified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), APICS CPIM, CSCP, or similar certification.Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.Experience with international sourcing and global supply chains.Familiarity with supplier quality systems and manufacturing compliance requirements.Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, or JD Edwards.Physical RequirementsAbility to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods.Ability to move throughout office, warehouse, and production environments.Occasional lifting of materials or samples up to 25 pounds.Ability to travel periodically for supplier visits, audits, and industry events.Working ConditionsCombination of office and manufacturing floor environment.Regular interaction with suppliers, production teams, engineering, finance, and leadership.Occasional domestic and international travel may be required.May require flexibility to address urgent supply chain or production-related issues.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chattanooga, TN.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $48.08-$57.69/hr.Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.- Yearly bonuses depending on production and company performance - Total Rewards Package - Growth Opportunities - Competitive Pay - Flexible Work ScheduleThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chattanooga, TN.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 13, 2026.Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Chattanooga, TN.About Aston CarterAston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to